IN THE GAME

We have a new old champion. Panathinaikos, winning it for the fourth time this century, took home the European basketball crown despite a huge breakdown in the second half after an unbelievable first half display. In fact, the first half was one of the best displays on both ends of the court I…

On a picture perfect day in Berlin, the place around o2-world arena was buzzing with expectation. A lot had been talked about security difficulties and unnecessary controls, but in the end none of it played too big of a part, as fans quickly reached the gangways and only had to wait a little…

Only 12 hours to go until Europe’s biggest basketball event tips off, and here’s our look at the the semifinals. Click here for a player by player analysis and statistcs and playing styles.

CSKA Moscow vs. FC Barcelona
The Calatans have the best record out of all participants going into the…

The expectations are high for this year’s Final Four, which features three teams that many considered a lock for Berlin, and another one [Barcelona] that had made key offseason acquisitions and was expected to be one of three, four candidates for the fourth spot. The four participants also feature the four biggest budgets in the competition. “Great players and big budgets don’t always mean you know how to use them correctly. So it’s a great accomplishment for each team [to be here]” was what coach Messina said in an interview for Euroleague.net. Obviously, they do have the know-how.

With the 2009 Euroleague Final Four in Berlin approaching, in the game will have an extended look at the participants. First in our series is a player-by-player preview that might be interesting for those of you who are not as accustomed to the participating players as the diehard fans. In later editions, we will take a look at extended statistics and team strategies. One small advice: If you’re going to Berlin and do not know everyone’s statistics and player characteristics off the top of your head, print these and take them with you. The official programs are usually expensive and rather disappointing – if they exist at all.